Kevin De Bruyne Reveals the Manchester United Player Who Truly Shocked Him This Season
When one of football’s most respected names speaks, the world listens—and this time, Kevin De Bruyne has turned heads not for his own magic, but for a surprising admission about a rival.
In a rare moment of honest praise, the Manchester City midfield maestro opened up about a Manchester United player whose performances this season genuinely caught him off guard.
A Surprising Admission From a City Legend
De Bruyne, celebrated for his consistency and brilliance at Manchester City over the past decade, took a moment during a recent interview to praise someone outside his usual circle.
With six Premier League titles, a Champions League medal, over 100 goals, and more than 170 assists for City, KDB is rarely short of things to talk about.
Yet, in reflecting on this season, he chose to highlight the impressive performances of United’s Bruno Fernandes.
“I didn’t expect it,” De Bruyne admitted. “He’s been fantastic this season. Whoever gave him the freedom to play that way really got it right—he’s been top class.”
The Belgian playmaker made these comments with a tone of genuine surprise and respect—praise that wasn’t simply routine professionalism, but admiration earned through tough on-pitch battles.
Rivalry Respect
Manchester derbies are always intense, full of emotion and fierce competition. So when a player like De Bruyne—known for dissecting defenses and dominating games—stops to give credit to an opponent, it carries real weight.
His praise for Fernandes was a recognition of the Portuguese star’s intelligence, calmness, and tactical control, especially in matches where both sides were fighting for control of midfield.
Fernandes, often at the heart of United’s creative force, has been instrumental this season, bringing leadership, sharp passing, and crucial goals.
De Bruyne’s acknowledgment adds a layer of validation to his efforts, especially given their direct clashes in derby showdowns.
Battle of the Midfield Generals
While City has continued to rely on De Bruyne’s vision and skill—despite him battling through injury this season—United fans have watched Fernandes step up again and again.
With De Bruyne managing 3 goals and 7 assists in 24 league appearances this term, he’s still shown his quality, but it’s his honest admiration of Bruno’s consistency and class that stood out.
More Than Just Compliments
This moment goes beyond rivalry—it’s about mutual recognition among elite professionals.
Bruno Fernandes managed to impress one of the best midfielders in modern football, not through a single performance, but through a season of dedication, drive, and influence.
Kevin De Bruyne publicly praising Bruno Fernandes is a reminder that real football respect knows no colours.
It’s a moment where rivalry takes a backseat and quality shines through.
